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Friday, April 27, 2012

Trusting the Path

A writer MUCH smarter than me once told me to trust that the path is there, even when you can't see it. And that is pretty much the perfect way to describe what I've been dealing with as I try to write KEEPER 2.

I plotted the whole series years ago. I also wrote--and discussed at length--a thorough synopsis for what would happen in the book, and it all made perfect sense. I had a PLAN. And then... I started writing.

To say this book has thrown me curve balls is a bit of an understatement. In fact, I didn't even know what it was REALLY about until about a week ago when I had an EPIPHANY. So... yeah. It's been stressful. And scary. And have I mentioned stressful?

BUT, I'm trusting that the path is there.

I can finally see it--though I have a TON of work to do to really bring it out. And there are still parts of it that are a bit murky.

But the path IS there. And I'm not giving up until I finally get it right.

So... that pretty much sums up what I'll be doing this weekend. How about you guys?

Yeah, right now writing my WiP is like trudging through a thick forest and forging my own path with a machete even though I can't see a freaking thing. Heh :) The path will be there when I'm done, at least! Isn't it funny how even when you plan things, it's SO different when you're actually writing it?

I have been hiding out at a friend's house, away from my usual routine, chores, and interruptions, to try for that mental clarity so sorely lacking in my writing. And I found it, I think, or at least I've glimpsed a vision of its shining potential. Putting it on paper takes so much trust in one's ability to translate a vision into the intended reaction from a reader.

I have some reinforcements (writing pals) coming over this evening to spend the night, eat, drink, and be merry - for tomorrow we write together! I need to go home on Thursday with a story that works from beginning to end, even if it's still sketchy. Apart from being a mother, this is really the hardest thing in the world to do, this novel-writing lark, isn't it?

And faith in one's self is the most elusive element of the entire process, and the most crucial. Good luck with it, Shannon.

Oh, #1, I need to soak up some of your work ethic. I have avoided my revisions for what feels like forever! I NEED to finish the last 1/3 of the book -- FOR SUBS! And I just haven't found it in me to do it. I don't know why I can't face it. I open my document, stare at it, and suddenly have something else I need to do. *sigh*

Awesome post! I outline but once I'm in the book, it changes so much. I frequently try to remap before just giving up and going where the story takes me. This weekend, I'll be celebrating my 5th wedding anniversary! And reading my 8 year old nieces first book - which she asked for "feedback" on.

I'm drafting something completely new, and it's not quite what I thought it was. But I am trusting the path. So glad to know it works! Good luck writing; can't wait to see what the Keepers series brings!

Me on the other hand... I had a nicely plotted super-rough first draft all banged out earlier this year and my editor said (in effect) "This is great, but if you wanted, we could go this completely different direction."

I fell in love with the idea, and now I'm falling in love with the book. My not-plotted-out, super scary new book that I'm writing from mostly scratch. Terrifying, but exhilarating. (Mostly terrifying. *grin*)

Hi Shannon! I've got to say thank you for the honesty you share every step of the process, from writing to revisions and to publication. You can do it!: )

Me? I'll be working on some upcoming blog posts for early May, reading/commenting on lots of blogs that have been participating in the A to Z Challenge, and I'll be getting some much needed housework done.

Oh thanks for the honesty. I just came from a writing conference with a bundle of critiques under my arm and the knowledge that some major revision has to happen. I don't know how I'm going to do it. I think I'll be like Scarlet O'Hara and worry about it tomorrow. But thanks for your honesty and faith in yourself. You help guide the rest of us as you reflect on your challenges. :)

Yay-I love comments! Thank you so much! (But please remember to keep your comments spoiler-free. Also, I try to keep this a happy, positive place. Any arguing or intense debate--on any subject will be removed. Let's keep this a safe, fun space.

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